PHIL20760 Intro to Buddhist Philosophy

Academic Year 2024/2025

This module is designed to provide students with no prior knowledge of Buddhist thought with a comprehensive understanding of the core teachings and philosophical principles of Buddhism. The module aims to dispel common misconceptions about Buddhist teachings and highlight their relevance in addressing contemporary issues.

We will begin with an exploration of the historical and cultural context of Buddhism, the life of Siddhartha Gautama (the later Buddha), and the development of the major branches of Buddhism. From this foundation, the module dives into the Four Noble Truths, the heart of the Buddha’s teachings. We examine the nature of dukkha ( the Pali term for suffering, discomfort, discontentment), the origins of dukkha, the cessation of dukkha, and the path to liberation through the Eightfold Path. Students will engage with key concepts such as impermanence, no-self, and kamma (“karma” in Sanskrit) and link these ideas to modern stressors and challenges.

The module integrates theoretical learning with experiential practices, including reflective exercises, case studies, and guided meditations. This approach not only enhances academic understanding but also fosters personal growth and learning through experiencing. Participation in these practices during the lectures in mandatory and the module is not suitable for those who wish to just passively listen.

By the end of the module, students will have a holistic grasp of Buddhist philosophy. This will enable them to critically analyse and apply core Buddhist principles in academic contexts and beyond.

Recommended reading:
Siderits, M. (2021). Introduction to Buddhist philosophy (2nd Edition !!). Hackett Publishing Company.

To read the original material, students should read the suttas, which are considered to be the closest we can get to the actual words of the Buddha. Most of the suttas (translated) of the Pali canon can be found on https://suttacentral.net
Please contact me for a list of the most important suttas if you would like to read them before the beginning of the term.


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Curricular information is subject to change

Learning Outcomes:

By the end of this module, students will be able to:

- Analyse the historical and cultural context of Buddhist philosophy.
- Discuss the core teachings of the Buddha, including the Four Noble Truths and the Eightfold Path.
- Critically evaluate key concepts of Buddhist Philosophy.
- Apply Buddhist philosophical insights to contemporary issues.
- Engage in reflective practices and meditative exercises to experience Buddhist teachings firsthand.
- Identify and correct common misconceptions about Buddhist teachings.
- Demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of Buddhist philosophy through written assessments and class discussions.

Indicative Module Content:

Buddhist philosophy, the Buddha, the Four Noble Truths, The Eightfold Path

Student Effort Hours: 
Student Effort Type Hours
Lectures

24
Tutorial

7
Autonomous Student Learning

94
Total

125
Approaches to Teaching and Learning:
The module integrates theoretical learning with experiential practices, including reflective exercises, case studies, and guided meditations. This approach not only enhances academic understanding but also fosters personal growth and learning through experiencing. Participation in these practices during the lectures in mandatory and the module is not suitable for those who wish to just passively listen.
 
Requirements, Exclusions and Recommendations

Not applicable to this module.


Module Requisites and Incompatibles
Not applicable to this module.
 
Assessment Strategy  
Description Timing Component Scale Must Pass Component % of Final Grade In Module Component Repeat Offered
Participation in Learning Activities: Students will complete three short reflective written assignments during class, occurring at undisclosed specific weeks.

Week 2, Week 3, Week 4, Week 5, Week 6, Week 7, Week 8, Week 9, Week 10, Week 11 Graded No

25

 No
Exam (In-person): Closed-book exam, in-class, 2 hrs, all topics will be covered Week 12 Graded No

75

 No

Carry forward of passed components
No
 
Resit In Terminal Exam
Spring Yes - 2 Hour
Please see Student Jargon Buster for more information about remediation types and timing. 
Feedback Strategy/Strategies

• Feedback individually to students, post-assessment
• Self-assessment activities

How will my Feedback be Delivered?

Not yet recorded.